Brentford are considering a renewed attempt to sign winger Johan Bakayoko in the January transfer window, with the Belgian available for a significantly reduced fee. The 23-year-old, who turned down a move to the club in 2023, could now be secured for a reported €11-12 million as Thomas Frank's side look to bolster their attack. The club currently sits sixth in the Premier League with 14 points from nine games, a record of three wins, five draws, and one loss, and is ten points behind leaders Arsenal.

Bakayoko was a primary target in the summer of 2023, when Brentford agreed a deal worth up to €40 million with PSV Eindhoven. The then 20-year-old opted to stay in the Netherlands for Champions League football before joining RB Leipzig later that same window. He has since scored three goals in 26 appearances for the Bundesliga side.

Current squad context

Brentford's interest comes as they sit sixth in the Premier League with 14 points from nine games, firmly in the conversation for European qualification. Their attack, while productive with 16 goals scored and only nine conceded this season, is an area the club is actively looking to strengthen. Kevin Schade leads the scoring charts with three goals, supported by options like Dango Ouattara, Jaidon Anthony, and Keane Lewis-Potter.

The potential arrival of Bakayoko would add another dynamic option out wide. The club's recruitment team has a history of revisiting former targets, as seen with their previous pursuit of Mykhailo Mudryk.

January opportunity

The structure of a potential deal remains under discussion, with a straight transfer or a loan with an option to buy both considered viable. This represents a major discount on the fee agreed three years ago, making the move financially attractive for a club that has carefully managed its resources.

Brentford's form has been mixed recently, with a 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest on Saturday 31 October, where goals came via an own goal and a strike from Igor Thiago, followed by a 3-2 defeat to Sunderland three days earlier. Their recent form over the last five league games stands at one win, two draws, and two losses, following results against Hull City, Liverpool, and Aston Villa. They face a tough test next, travelling to face third-placed Brighton on Sunday 8 November. A strong performance in that fixture could further underline the need for additional quality in the final third as the club aims to maintain its top-six position.

Securing a player of Bakayoko's profile for a cut-price fee would align with Brentford's smart recruitment model and provide a fresh impetus for the second half of the season.

More detail at Sky Germany